Mist Plane. February. Simon Town.
The mayor sat alone, the light in the room illuminating the gold coins on the table.
Outside the window, the rain grew louder, pattering furiously. Several dazzling flashes of lightning lit up a cluster of trees, where the figures of several hanged people swayed.
Another flash illuminated a man's face. It was none other than Lidun, the innkeeper.
The Salant Baron Fief.
Meanwhile, the Temple's priests, the lord, and representatives of the warriors were gathering.
The priests took their respective seats, while the warrior representatives stood on either side. Only knights were entitled to seats; there were none for them yet.
Several mages were waiting as well.
They awaited those who had summoned them: Bishop Kanrongpa and Haboba.
A moment later, Bishop Kanrongpa and Haboba appeared in the Temple, dressed in white robes.
Bishop Kanrongpa surveyed the gathering.
"I have some very unfortunate news to announce. Priest Hanbo, whom we sent to preach in Simon Town, and our most devout believer, Lidun, have died for our god."
"Simon Town is the site of our lord's miracle and must therefore be our rightful domain. That such a thing has happened there is undoubtedly a disgrace to us."
"Lord Haboba, on behalf of the Church, I ask you to punish those heretics."
"Bishop Kanrongpa, your request is our god's command. I will do everything in my power to eradicate the heretics and spread the glory of the Romon God." Haboba bowed solemnly as he accepted the charge, his eyes shining.
Autumn had given way to winter, and winter to spring. The population of the Salant Baron Fief had already exceeded seven hundred. Over the past six months, two more villages had been conquered and guided into their god's glory.
"Then we march tomorrow morning!"
By noon the